How to Take Better Notes

Discover the best note-taking method for you

If you’re a student, you probably know how important it is to take good notes, but sometimes, that’s easier said than done. In this article, we’ll teach you all the best tips, techniques, and methods to take better notes. Plus, learn how to review your notes, the benefits of taking good notes, and whether you should take notes digitally or by hand. We also interviewed professional tutors to give you advice on how to take notes and do well in class.

How do I take good notes?

• Write down key points like main ideas, dates, and definitions.
• Organize your notes in a way that makes sense to you so you can find the information you need.
• Highlight and color-code your notes so you retain the information more easily.
• Try different note-taking methods (like Cornell notes or mind maps) to find one that works for you.

Steps

Note-Taking Tips & Techniques

1. Focus on keywords and concepts. The most important way to improve your note-taking skills is to focus solely on taking down keywords and concepts. Write down individual words or phrases that are most relevant to the topic at hand—things like dates, names, theories, and definitions. Prioritize new information that you’ve never heard before, and don’t waste time writing down what you already know.^[1]
   
   • Think about what you want to retain. Why are you taking the class or attending the seminar? Why did your employer send you to the conference? Use these questions to determine what information is most important.
   • Academic tutor David Jia says, “A lot of people will take too many notes and literally write everything down. At that point, they spend too much time and have all these notes of really obvious stuff they didn’t need to take notes on. Then, it takes them forever to go back into the notes to look for the information they need.”^[2]
2. Color-code your notes. Use different colored highlighters to emphasize keywords, dates, and definitions. Try writing different parts of your notes (like questions, definitions, and conclusions) in different colored pens, like red, blue, and green. Color-coding stimulates the creative side of your brain to make your notes more interesting. This helps you link color with memory, allowing you to remember the contents of your notes more easily.^[3]
   
   • Don’t go overboard with highlighting, however. If you highlight everything, you won’t know what’s most important!
3. Keep your notes organized. There’s no point taking notes if you can’t find the information you need! Keep your notes in a separate notebook, folder, or binder for each subject so nothing gets lost. Start your notes for each class period on a fresh sheet of paper and write the date at the top. Make sure your writing is legible so it’s easy for you to quickly find the information you need to study.^[4]
   
   • It also helps to use headings, subheadings, and numbered lists to easily distinguish major and minor points.
   • Use wide margins when writing down your notes. This will prevent the page from becoming too overcrowded and will give you extra space to write in any additional information once you review your notes.
   • When taking lecture notes, test prep tutor Jennifer Kaifesh says, “Try to highlight keywords/concepts, and, whenever possible, organize your notes in a clear, structured way. Even better, record the lecture on your phone and type up notes after class when you have time to hit ‘pause’ and search confusing terms.”^[5]
4. Take notes in your own words. Don’t write down what your teacher or lecturer says verbatim. Paraphrase what you hear in a way that makes sense to you. This will help you understand and remember what you hear. Try to paraphrase everything except for any information that specifically needs to be noted exactly.^[6]
   
5. Use symbols and abbreviations. Abbreviating words or using shorthand allows you to take notes more quickly and avoid falling behind. Use common abbreviations like “etc.” for “etcetera”, “info” for “information,” “gov” for “government,” and so on. Using symbols like “=” or “>” for “equals” and “greater than” respectively can also save you some time, as you don’t have to write out the words.^[7]
   
   • The average student writes 1/3 word per second, while the average speaker speaks at a rate of 2/3 words per second, so it’s easy to fall behind if you write out every single word.
   • Try using your own abbreviations, as well. For example, use “wd” for “would,” “cd” for “could,” and “w/” for “with.” Just make sure you’re able to decipher your own shorthand later on. Create a key if necessary.
   • Try to abbreviate long words that appear again and again throughout the class. For example, instead of writing “popular sovereignty” 25 times over the course of a history class, write “pop sov.”
   • If you use shorthand and the speaker is still going too fast, consider bringing a recording device to your next class. This will allow you to listen a second time and fill in any gaps in your notes.
6. Take notes from your textbook. After a class or lecture, supplement your notes with information from your textbook. Start by reading any introductions and conclusions, headers and sub-headers, and the first and last line of every paragraph to determine what the chapter is about. Then, read the text thoroughly and highlight any keywords, facts, concepts, or important quotes. Add this information to your notes.^[8]
   
   • Try not to copy full sentences from the text, and instead paraphrase the information in your own words.

Note-Taking Methods

1. The Outline method{endbold} The Outline method is one of the most structured and visibly organized note-taking methods. Add your main points as bullets, then include additional relevant information as nested bullet points below your main point. The finished page resembles an outline for a paper, hence the name.^[9]
   
   • When to use this method: When you need to write down information quickly (like during a lecture) or to see a hierarchy of information
   • Pros: Highlights key points, groups related points, highly structured and visibly organized
   • Cons: Doesn’t work well for subjects that require a lot of diagrams, graphs, or other visuals
2. The Cornell method{endbold} Cornell notes are one of the most popular note-taking methods, designed to make you actively think about what you’re writing. Divide your paper into 3 sections—a 2-inch horizontal section on the bottom, a 2.5-inch vertical section on the left, and a large section on the right. Write all your class notes in the large section, comments and questions in the section on the left, and summarize the information you learned in the bottom section.^[10]
   
   • When to use this method: Use Cornell notes when you know you need to study a lot, as it’s easy to revise with the page setup.
   • Pros: Helps you find the main ideas, the summary gives you a better understanding of the information, notes are logically organized and easy to skim
   • Cons: Takes more effort than other note-taking methods, requires extra time to set up the page
3. The Boxing method{endbold} The Boxing method is a highly visual note-taking method that provides an at-a-glance overview of your topic. Divide your page into two columns, then add topic headers for each main idea. Expand each section with key points directly below the main idea. After completing notes for each idea, draw a box around the entire note section and header. The final page will contain several different-sized boxes for each topic and its notes.^[11]
   
   • When to use this method: Use this method for revision, using a different page for each course or topic.
   • Pros: Helpful for studying and revising, provides a quick overview of each topic
   • Cons: Not suitable for lecture notes, can be a hassle if you’re drawing the boxes freehand (as opposed to using a note-taking app)
4. The Charting method{endbold} The Charting method allows you to organize concepts that share several properties or connections. Set up a grid where each column has its own category of information and each row has its own topic. Add words, phrases, and main ideas in the square correlating square where the rows and columns intersect.^[12]
   
   • When to use this method: Use the Charting method when you need to compare items across a certain set of characteristics.
   • Pros: Good for comparison, summarizes a series of items in a systematic way
   • Cons: Not good for linear note-taking or notes that follow a story or progression of information
5. The Mapping method{endbold} The Mapping method is a visual note-taking method that allows you to divide your notes into branches to establish relationships between topics. Write your main idea at the top of your page, then draw arrows to the left, right, and below, and add your subtopics. Add supporting ideas to your subtopics the same way.^[13]
   
   • When to use this method: Use this method when individual points require a lot of explanation or when your notes follow a linear progression.
   • Pros: Easy to create and follow ideas, easily demonstrates relationships between information, allows you to elaborate on points without cluttering your page
   • Cons: You may run out of space depending on how many branches you need (usually works better for note-taking apps than handwritten notes)
6. The Mind Mapping method{endbold} Mind Mapping is similar to the Mapping method, as it is a visual way to show connections between information and ideas. Start with a central topic in the middle of your page, then add branches and sub-branches to connect related ideas. Mind maps are a great way to synthesize new ideas, as your ideas easily flow from one to the next.^[14]
   
   • When to use this method: Mind Mapping is good for revising and brainstorming new ideas.
   • Pros: Breaks down large ideas into smaller pieces, allows you to create and discover new connections between ideas, visually presents how ideas are related
   • Cons: Not the best for recording lectures or meetings in the moment
7. The Zettelkasten method{endbold} The Zettelkasten method is designed to help organize knowledge for long-term reference and development. Write one idea on a notecard (a “zettel”) and store it in a box (a “kasten”). Then, create connections between your notes by using tags. This allows you to create a growing encyclopedia of knowledge about a certain topic.^[15]
   
   • When to use this method: While the Zettelkasten can’t be used during a lecture, it works well if you need to learn a lot of information about a certain topic, like for your college degree. Create a Zettelkasten during your first year and continue adding information throughout your college career.
   • Pros: Stores all your knowledge in one place, easy to review because of concise notes
   • Cons: Can take some time to set up, better for long-term knowledge than short-term revising

How to Review Your Notes

1. Review your notes later in the day. Reviewing your notes after class or later the same day will help you retain information much more effectively. You don’t need to study them intensely—just spend 15-20 minutes going over them each night.^[16]
   
   • As you review, add any additional information that you remember from the class or lecture.
   • Write a summary. Another effective tool for committing your notes to memory is to summarize the information at the bottom of the page.
2. Test yourself to see what you know. Test your understanding of the material by covering up your notes and trying to explain the topic to yourself, out loud or in your head. See how many important details you can remember, then read the notes again to recap any information you might have missed.^[17]
   
   • Alternatively, try to explain the material to a friend. This is a good way to test whether you’ve fully understood the topic and whether your notes are comprehensive.
3. Memorize your notes. Consistently review your notes for 20-30 minutes each night to memorize them for a test. This way, you’ll actually know the information so you don’t have to cram the night before. Here are some popular memorization techniques:^[18]
   
   • Line-by-line method: To memorize a chunk of text, read the first line a couple of times, then try to repeat it out loud without looking at the page. Read the second line a couple of times, then try to repeat the first and second line out loud. Keep going until you can repeat the entire text without looking at the page.
   • Story method: Turn the information you have to memorize into a simple story. For example, to memorize the first 3 elements of the periodic table (hydrogen, helium, and lithium), use a story like “(H)arriet and (He)nry went to the (Li)brary.” The sillier the story, the better.
   • Mnemonic devices: This helps you remember a list of words in a particular order. To make a mnemonic, take the first letter of each word and come up with a short sentence where each word starts with those letters. For example, to remember the lines on a musical staff (EGBDF), use the mnemonic “Every Good Boy Does Fine.”

Being Prepared

1. Come to class prepared. Have all of your note-taking materials organized and ready to go before your class, meeting, or lecture. If you take notes by hand, have extra pens or pencils and a notebook with plenty of blank pages. If you use a laptop, make sure it’s fully charged and bring a charger just in case.^[19]
   
   • It also helps to review notes or background reading from your previous class. This helps bring you up to speed so you’re ready to pick up where you left off.
   • If you wear glasses, have them with you so you can see important information on the whiteboard or screen. Sit somewhere you can effectively see and hear the speaker.
2. Be an active listener. When note-taking, many people make the mistake of writing down every word without really comprehending what is being said. Instead, actively listen by focusing on what’s really being said and asking questions about what you don’t understand. This will help you know what is important to write down.^[20]
   
   • Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Think about it—if you find something confusing now, it’ll be twice as confusing when you review your notes later.
   • Determine the best time to ask questions, then raise your hand to get the instructor's attention. They'll appreciate that you're listening attentively and want to understand.
   • Do your best to understand the information during class so you won't have to work so hard during the review.
   • If you have trouble focusing in class, academic tutor Daron Cam says, “Make sure you get enough sleep, [and] request to sit in the front row. [If] someone’s distracting you in class, please advocate for yourself and don’t be afraid to ask for seating changes.”^[21]

Benefits of Taking Good Notes

1. Taking good notes improves your active listening skills. In order to take good notes, you must truly understand the information being taught to you.^[22] This forces you to pay close attention to what your teacher or professor is saying so you can copy down the most important information. It also encourages you to ask questions about what you don’t understand.
   
2. It requires you to think about what you are writing. If you blindly write down every single word your teacher says or every word that’s on the PowerPoint, you likely won’t pay attention to what’s actually being said. When you focus on keywords, themes, and terms, you must think about what you’re writing so that you retain important information.^[23]
   
3. Taking notes helps you make connections between topics. When you write something down, you’re more likely to remember it. Taking notes on every lesson allows you to see what you’ve learned and how it relates to previous lessons. This is very beneficial for preparing for tests, as it allows you to create connections you might not have realized otherwise.^[24]
   
4. Good notes help you study. When you take notes, you have a physical reminder of what you learned in class. Having concise notes can save you time and energy when you study, as you’ll have all the important information right in front of you. Looking over your notes each day can help you avoid having to cram for tests.^[25]
   

Handwritten vs Digital Notes

1. Studies show it’s better to take notes by hand. Although taking notes on your laptop is convenient, research shows note-takers actually retain information better when they handwrite their notes. This may be because people typing on a laptop tend to transcribe every word without understanding the meaning, while people writing by hand are forced to pick out relevant information in order to keep up.^[26]
   
   • If you do take notes by laptop, don’t try to get down every word. Make sure you understand the meaning of what’s being said.
   • Using a laptop in class is also a distraction, as you may be tempted to go online rather than paying attention to your lecture.

Reader Videos

Video

Tips

• If the speaker repeats something more than twice, then it's probably important and worth paying attention to.
• When you take notes, underline keywords that might appear on your test.
• Make sure to have a separate notebook or page for each of your subjects, and label them so you stay organized.
• If you are reading a book for an English literature class, make sure you have a pack of Post-It notes at hand, as you may not be allowed to write in the actual book.
• If it’s easier, type your notes during class, then write them down once you get home. Studies have proven that handwriting notes helps you retain the information more easily.
• Use software like Evernote or Microsoft Office OneNote to arrange your notes.

Related wikiHows

• Take Minutes
• Take Lecture Notes
• Take Notes
• Organize Notes
• Stay on Top of Homework

References

Quick Summary

1. ↑ https://post.edu/blog/preventing-information-overload-note-taking-tips-students/
2. ↑ [v161674_b01]. 23 February 2021.
3. ↑ https://www.adelaide.edu.au/writingcentre/sites/default/files/docs/learningguide-notetakingabbreviations.pdf
4. ↑ https://post.edu/blog/preventing-information-overload-note-taking-tips-students/
5. ↑ [v161188_b02]. 8 November 2019.
6. ↑ https://success.oregonstate.edu/learning-corner/studying/note-taking
7. ↑ https://www.adelaide.edu.au/writingcentre/sites/default/files/docs/learningguide-notetakingabbreviations.pdf
8. ↑ https://www.cornellcollege.edu/registrar/academics-registration/study-tips/reading-textbooks.shtml
9. ↑ https://www.csum.edu/university-advising/media/effective-note-taking-strategies.pdf
10. ↑ https://www.umfk.edu/offices/student-success/successful-note-taking/
11. ↑ https://libguides.cam.ac.uk/physicalsciences/notetaking
12. ↑ https://www.csum.edu/university-advising/media/effective-note-taking-strategies.pdf
13. ↑ https://www.csum.edu/university-advising/media/effective-note-taking-strategies.pdf
14. ↑ https://www.adelaide.edu.au/writingcentre/sites/default/files/docs/learningguide-mindmapping.pdf
15. ↑ https://zettelkasten.de/overview/
16. ↑ https://www.csum.edu/university-advising/media/effective-note-taking-strategies.pdf
17. ↑ https://learningcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/enhancing-your-memory/
18. ↑ https://learningcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/enhancing-your-memory/
19. ↑ https://sites.austincc.edu/student-skills-workshops/taking-effective-notes/notetaking-strategies/
20. ↑ https://sites.austincc.edu/student-skills-workshops/taking-effective-notes/notetaking-strategies/
21. ↑ [v161434_b01]. 29 May 2020.
22. ↑ https://www.adelaide.edu.au/writingcentre/sites/default/files/docs/learningguide-notetakingabbreviations.pdf
23. ↑ https://teaching.uic.edu/cate-teaching-guides/inclusive-equity-minded-teaching-practices/note-taking/
24. ↑ https://teaching.uic.edu/cate-teaching-guides/inclusive-equity-minded-teaching-practices/note-taking/
25. ↑ https://teaching.uic.edu/cate-teaching-guides/inclusive-equity-minded-teaching-practices/note-taking/
26. ↑ https://www.psychologicalscience.org/news/releases/take-notes-by-hand-for-better-long-term-comprehension.html

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How to Use Ear Candles

Every person has earwax, which is also called cerumen. If you have a sense of fullness, discharge from your ear, or have difficulty hearing on occasion, you may need to remove a buildup of wax.^[1] There are many different ways to remove earwax, and one common alternative option is ear candling. It's important to note that the medical community recommends avoiding ear candles as they may be ineffective and even potentially dangerous. If you’re concerned about earwax buildup, speak to your doctor about other treatment methods.

Ear Candling: Is It Safe & Effective?

Medical experts caution against ear candling since it can cause serious damage to your ear and may not be effective at removing ear wax. Instead, they recommend applying ear drops, using oil or glycerin drops, or irrigating your ears to remove wax plugs.

Steps

Using a Candle to Remove Wax

1. Be aware of the risks of ear candling. Alternative medicine practitioners are strong advocates for the benefits of ear candling, but many medical doctors believe that candling is ineffective and dangerous. Being aware of the risks and concerns about ear candling can help you make an informed decision if it is the best way for you to remove your earwax.^[2]
   
   • Studies by otolaryngologists (ear, nose, and throat doctors) have shown that ear candling can cause burns, blockages in the ear canal, ear infections, and ear drum perforations even if you use the candle according to the packaging.^[3]
   • Most medical doctors believe ear candling is ineffective for removing wax.
2. Have a friend or family member assist you. It can be difficult to perform ear candling by yourself. Have a friend or family member assist you during the process. This can help minimize the risk of burning yourself or causing other trauma to your ear.
   
3. Size the tapered, or small, end of the candle to your ear. The candle should be fitted to the size and contours of your ear. This can help ensure the most safe and effective candling process. If the procedure isn’t performed by an experienced practitioner with the appropriate tools, it can cause damage to your eardrum. Even when performed properly, it’s possible to cause trauma to your ear canal.^[4]
   
   • Use the scissors to trim the end, making the opening slightly larger so it fills the ear canal.
   • Make sure the opening is passable. There should be a clear pathway from one end of the candle to the other. If necessary, use a sharp, pointy object to remove any obstruction from the candle’s smaller end.
4. Wash your hands and your ear. Before you begin candling your ear, wash your hands and wipe off your ear. This can help minimize the risk of spreading bacteria that may cause an infection. Use a soft soap that is antibacterial and antimicrobial.^[5]
   
   • Wash your hands with a simple and basic soap or use a soft soap that is antimicrobial and antibacterial.
   • Wipe off your ear with a moist cloth.
5. Cover your head with a damp towel. Moisten a large towel with some water and cover your head and upper torso area. This can help prevent a flame or any ashes from burning you during the candling process.
   
   • Make sure to cover your head, hair, shoulders, and upper torso.
6. Sit upright for the candling process. It will be easier and safer for you to sit upright during the ear-candling process. This can help ensure that falling ashes don’t contact or burn you.
   
   • Be careful; if you do not do this correctly, you could burn yourself. Physicians do not recommend using ear candles because of this risk.
7. Rub the area behind your ear. Before you begin the candling procedure, massage the area around and behind your ear. This can help relax you and stimulate circulation in your ear area.
   
   • Massage the area behind your jawbone, around your temple, and your scalp.
   • Rub for at least 30 seconds to open up the area around your ear.
8. Put a paper plate or pie tin over your ear. Cut a small hole in either a paper plate or pie tin and place it over your ear. This can help ensure that you don’t get burned with the flame or falling ashes.
   
   • Use any type of paper plate or pie tin, which are found at most grocery stores.
   • Make sure the hole corresponds to the size of the end of the ear candle. Fit the candle into this hole and hold it up over the ear being cleaned.
9. Position the tapered end of the candle in your ear canal. Place the small end of the candle in the paper plate or pie tin and then position the tip of the candle in your ear canal. The plate can help prevent hot wax from dripping onto your outer ear, causing harmful burns. This can help ensure a safer and more effective candling procedure, but there’s still a chance of burning your inner ear so proceed with extreme caution.^[6]
   
   • Keep the candle in a vertically upright position. When sitting upright, the candle should be at an approximately 30-degree angle.
10. Light the large end of the candle. Have your assistant light the large end of the candle with a lighter or match. This will start the candling process and can help ensure that you safely light the candle without burning yourself.
    
    • You will know if the candle is properly in place if no smoke escapes from between your ear and the small end of the candle.
    • If you do not have a secure fit, readjust your position or the candle. It is important to get a secure fitting. If this takes a while, try again using a new candle.
11. Burn the candle for approximately fifteen minutes. It should take about 15 minutes for the candle to burn down to the desired length for the most effective ear-candling session. Be careful to keep the candle from burning too short to help minimize the risk of burning your scalp or depositing candle wax in your ear canal, which are recognized complications of ear candling.^[7]
    
12. Trim the candle every two inches. As the candle burns, trim it into a bowl of water every couple of inches. This can keep ashes or flames from falling close to and burning you.
    
    • Remove the candle to trim it into the bowl of water. Simply replace it securely in the ear canal when you’re finished.
13. Allow the candle burn to within of the end. After the candle has burned down so there is only about remaining, ask your assistant to extinguish it in the bowl of water. This can help minimize your risk of getting burned by the candle.
    
    • If the burn takes a while, have your assistant check the small end's opening after a few minutes to make sure it is not obstructed. If necessary, use a toothpick to swiftly clear the opening and reinsert the candle in the ear.
14. Observe debris on the candle stub. Once you’ve removed the candle stub from your ear canal, there may be a mixture of wax and debris on the stub. Some alternative health practitioners believe this is earwax and bacteria. Examining it may help you assess if you removed enough wax or need to repeat the candling procedure. However, studies have found no evidence that ear candles are effective at drawing out earwax.^[8]
    
    • If you put the candle into water immediately, no wax may be visible. It’s also possible that some of the wax from the candle was deposited in your ear canal.^[9]
15. Clean the ear. Once you’ve finished the candling process, clean the outer area of your ear and ear canal. Be careful not to push any wax or remnants back down into the ear.
    
    • Use a cloth or cotton swab to clean the ear. Just make sure not to put a cotton swab all the way into your ear, which can push wax further into your ear or perforate your ear drum.^[10]
16. Repeat the ear candling on the other ear. If both of your ears have a wax buildup, repeat the process on your other ear. Be sure to follow the steps closely and according to the product packaging. Carefully following the directions may help prevent burning or other damage in your ear, but it’s still possible to cause trauma that may result in hearing loss.^[11]
    

Removing Earwax with Alternative Procedures

1. Wipe the outside of your ear. Clean the outside of your ear canal with a cloth or paper tissue moistened with mineral oil. This may help remove discharge or any wax that has worked its way outside of your inner ear.^[12]
   
   • Use a soft cloth to wipe around the outside of your ear and on your outer ear canal.^[13] If you like, wet the cloth slightly with warm water.^[14]
   • Wrap a paper tissue around your finger and gently wipe your outer ear and outer ear canal with the tissue to dry.^[15]
2. Apply over-the-counter eardrops to remove wax. For those people with minimal to moderate amounts of earwax, use an over-the-counter wax removal preparation. This can help clear any impacted wax.^[16]
   
   • Most over-the-counter drops are mineral oil and peroxide solutions.
   • The hydrogen peroxide will not dissolve your wax, but help it move through the ear canal. When using hydrogen peroxide, lie on your bed with your head to its side and a towel placed under your head. Pour (or use a rubber bulb) a small amount of H2O2 into the ear. The ear will start to feel warm and you will begin to hear a bubbling sound. This is normal. Roll your ear over onto the towel to let the peroxide drain out. Repeat on other side. If you have any ear discharge consult a doctor immediately.
   • Board Certified Otolaryngologist Dr. Payam Daneshrad cautions, “We try to avoid using peroxide because it can damage the skin of the ear canal…Wax softeners like over-the-counter medications work better. They do have some peroxide in them, but there's a much lower strength than anything a patient can find on their own.”^[17]
   • Make sure to follow the package instructions for using the products to help ensure you don’t cause further problems.
   • If you suspect you have an eardrum perforation, do not use an over-the-counter preparation. The symptoms of a perforated eardrum include bloody or pus-filled discharge from your ear, hearing loss, or a ringing sound in your ear.^[18]
   • You can purchase over-the-counter earwax removal drops at most pharmacies and some large retailers.
   • Cerumenolytics (peroxide & mineral oil) can lead to complications, including allergic reactions, otitis externa, transient hearing loss, and dizziness.
3. Try oil or glycerin drops to soften the wax. In addition to over-the-counter wax treatments, use simple household oils or glycerin drops to relieve wax plugs. These treatments soften earwax, making it easier to clear out of your ear canal.^[19]
   
   • Try baby or mineral oils as a treatment. Place one drop of baby or mineral oil in each ear and let it sit for a few minutes before allowing it to drain out.
   • Olive oil is another option that can help remove earwax, but better treatment options exist.^[20]
   • There are no studies about how often it's helpful to use oil or glycerin drops, but no more than a few times a week should be fine.
4. Irrigate your ears to remove wax plugs. Irrigating, sometimes called “syringing,” is one of the most common methods of removing wax plugs from the ears. Try washing your ear by irrigation along with drops or oil if you have large amounts or stubborn earwax.^[21]
   
   • You’ll need a medical syringe to use this method, which most pharmacies carry.
   • Fill the syringe with body-temperature water. Using cooler or warmer water may cause dizziness or vertigo.
   • Hold your head upright and gently pull the outside of your ear upward to straighten your ear canal.
   • Inject a small stream of water into your ear canal by where the wax plug is located.
   • Tilt your head to drain the water.
   • If necessary, perform an irrigation several times to clear away the impaction.
   • One study showed that injecting a small amount of water or oil into your ear before irrigation may help remove the wax more quickly.
   • Never use a water jet device designed for teeth to irrigate your ears!
5. Vacuum your ear canals. Purchase a suction device or vacuum to remove earwax. Although this method hasn’t been well-studied, it may work for you if you have a small amount of earwax.^[22]
   
   • Purchase earwax suction devices at many pharmacies or large retailers.
6. Dry out your ear. Once you’ve removed your earwax, it’s important to dry your ear thoroughly. This can help ensure that you don’t get an infection or experience other problems.^[23]
   
   • Use a few drops of rubbing alcohol to dry out your ear.
   • A hair dryer set to low can also help dry out your ear.
7. Avoid cleaning too often or with instruments. Understand that every person needs a certain amount of wax to help prevent ear infections. Avoid cleaning your ears too often or using instruments such as cotton swabs to help keep a healthy amount of wax in your ears.^[24]
   
   • Only clean your ears as often as you feel they require it. If you notice you need to clean your ears daily or have excess discharge, see your doctor.
   • Using instruments such as cotton swabs or hair pins can force wax into your ear instead of removing it and may cause infection or other problems.
   • Using instruments can also perforate your ear drum and lead to infection or hearing loss.
8. Talk to your doctor about professional treatment options. If you can’t remove your wax at home or experience other problems, such as pain or severe hearing loss, talk to your doctor about your different treatment options for wax plugs. This can help ensure that you get the most effective, least invasive, and most painless treatment for your impacted cerumen.^[25]
   
   • Your doctor may recommend professional treatments or options to use at home, including drops and irrigation.

Video

Tips

• Perform ear candling with the help of another person to help minimize the risk of burning or fires.

Warnings

• The medical community recommends avoiding ear candles as they may be ineffective or even dangerous. If you’re concerned about earwax buildup, speak to your doctor about other treatment methods.
• Refrain from being a subject of ear candling if you have any items surgically implanted in your ears (tubes, hearing devices, etc.).

Things You'll Need

• Ear candles
• Cotton swabs
• Cup of water
• Scissors
• Matches or a lighter
• Small, wet towel
• Someone to assist you

References

Quick Summary

1. ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/14428-ear-wax-buildup--blockage
2. ↑ https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/medical-procedures/ear-candling.html
3. ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10041208/
4. ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2231549/
5. ↑ https://www.cdc.gov/clean-hands/about/
6. ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2231549/
7. ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2231549/
8. ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2231549/
9. ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2231549/
10. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/earwax-blockage/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20353007
11. ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2231549/
12. ↑ https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000979.htm
13. ↑ https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000979.htm
14. ↑ https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000979.htm
15. ↑ https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000979.htm
16. ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/24654-ear-drops
17. ↑ [v161604_b01]. 30 September 2020.
18. ↑ https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/perforated-eardrum/
19. ↑ https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/aftercareinformation/pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=uh2941
20. ↑ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20546687/
21. ↑ https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/got-an-ear-full-heres-some-advice-for-ear-wax-removal
22. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/earwax-blockage/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20353007
23. ↑ https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/swimmers-ear
24. ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/14428-ear-wax-buildup--blockage
25. ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17673-hearing-loss

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How to What Anime Character Am I

Whether you’re joining Luffy and the Straw Hats on an adventure in One Piece or watching Shinji, Asuka, and Rei battle Angels in Neon Genesis Evangelion, one thing’s for sure—it’s easy to see yourself in some of anime’s most iconic heroes and heroines. But which one of them do you really resonate with?

There’s only one way to find out—hit “Start Quiz” to discover which anime character you’re really like from 32 of the most popular series out there.

Questions Overview

What Anime Character Am I?

Take this quiz to find out!

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1. If you were an anime protagonist, how would fans describe you in one word?

1. Intelligent
2. Brave
3. Charismatic
4. Cool
5. Loyal
6. Confident

2. What’s the best way to beat your enemies?

1. Outsmarting them
2. Battling them
3. Making them laugh
4. Ignoring them
5. Giving them a hug
6. Mocking them

3. Which yearbook superlative would you win?

1. Most Likely to Become President
2. Most Likely to Join the CIA
3. Most Likely to Save the Planet
4. Most Likely to Win the Nobel Peace Prize
5. Most Likely to Be a Secret Genius
6. Most Likely to Be Your Future Boss

4. Which unique pet would you most like to have?

1. Falcon
2. Pot-bellied pig
3. Monkey
4. Tortoise
5. Fire-bellied toad
6. Clown fish

5. My greatest weakness is that I'm too:

1. Stand-offish
2. Prideful
3. Outspoken
4. Impulsive
5. Sensitive
6. Self-sacrificing

6. What would be the signature color of an anime based on your life?

1. Yellow
2. Orange
3. Red
4. Blue
5. Pink
6. Green

7. If you starred in a superhero-themed anime, what would your special power be?

1. Invincibility
2. Super-speed
3. Incredible luck
4. Healing
5. Super-strength
6. Flight

8. If you could have any job, what would it be?

1. Librarian
2. Gardener
3. Firefighter
4. Chef
5. Teacher
6. Nurse

9. If you could shape-shift into any animal, what would you be?

1. Dragon
2. Penguin
3. Golden Retriever
4. Koala
5. Octopus
6. Unicorn

10. It’s battle time! What weapon will be most useful to you?

1. My sword
2. My brains
3. My magic
4. My robot
5. My giant mallet
6. My fists

11. If your life was an anime, what would be your main goal?

1. To be the greatest
2. To keep a promise
3. To train the weak
4. To be respected
5. To kick some butt
6. To have fun

12. What type of fictional alternate universe (AU) do you find most appealing?

1. Apocalypse AU
2. High School/University AU
3. Science Fiction AU
4. Urban Fantasy AU
5. Superhero AU
6. Magical Girl AU

13. Which mega-popular anime series is your fave?

1. One Piece
2. Naruto
3. Hunter x Hunter
4. Bleach
5. Death Note
6. Demon Slayer

14. Which famous anime villain would you like to face off against?

1. Hisoka (Hunter x Hunter)
2. Aizen (Bleach)
3. Frieza (Dragon Ball)
4. Muzan (Demon Slayer)
5. Dio (Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure)
6. Griffith (Berserk)

15. Which popular anime character would you be best friends with?

1. Armin (Attack on Titan)
2. Madoka (Madoka Magica)
3. Kamina (Gurren Lagann)
4. Sasuke (Naruto)
5. Sailor Moon (Sailor Moon)
6. Maki (Jujutsu Kaisen)

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The Most Popular Anime Series

There are thousands upon thousands of different anime series that have stolen our hearts over the decades. Here, we’ll take a closer look at some shows that really made a splash in the world of anime, based on how many people have watched (and continue to watch) them.

Disclaimer: The following list uses data collected from MyAnimeList, a popular site that allows anime watchers to track and rank the shows they’ve watched.

1. Attack on Titan
In a world dominated by man-eating Titans, Eren Yeager must join the fight for humanity’s right to survive.

2. Death Note
High school student Light Yagami strives to create a new world when he finds a Shinigami’s death note, which allows him to decide who lives and dies.

3. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
Brothers Edward and Alphonse Elric strive to correct the grievous mistakes of their past in a society governed by alchemy.

4. One Punch Man
Saitama, the strongest man alive, navigates life as a superhero, though he struggles to joy and excitement in fighting enemies he can defeat in a single punch.

5. Sword Art Online
Gaming meets reality when players are trapped in a video game, where, if you die in the game, you die in real life.

6. Demon Slayer
Driven by revenge, Tanjiro embarks on a journey to hunt the creatures who killed his family.

7. My Hero Academia
A chronicle of Izuku “Deku” Midoriya’s journey as he becomes one of the greatest superheroes ever known.

8. Naruto
A story that follows the adventures of Naruto, a ninja with the Nine-Tailed Fox demon sealed within him.

9. Hunter x Hunter
Young Gon strives to follow in his father’s footsteps and become a Hunter, where he encounters many adventures (and challenges) along the way.

10. Tokyo Ghoul
After a disastrous first (and last) date, Ken Kaneki must navigate life as half-human and half-ghoul.

Want to learn more?

Want to discover even more about the amazing world of anime? Check out sites like:

• https://myanimelist.net/topanime.php
• https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/ratings-anime.php
• https://www.anime-expo.org/

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References

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